WomenGive Spring 2015 Graduate Spotlight

April 29, 2015

Brianna Arthur is a single mother living in Fort Collins, Colorado, pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering at Colorado State University. She has two children, Tyler who is 6 years old, and Alyssa, who is 4. As one of her professors puts it, “Very simply, Brianna is an exceptional person. She enjoys life, enjoys her children, and gets a great deal of pleasure in excelling in her studies and in her work.”

“I am doing the best I can, and childcare costs are my biggest obstacle to completing my education. I would not be able to complete my degree without a scholarship.” Brianna explains in her very first application she submitted WomenGive in the Summer of 2013. Brianna was awarded the scholarship, and this was only the beginning of her journey receiving a childcare award from WomenGive.

Brianna has received a total of $25,483.00 in childcare scholarships from WomenGive since her first application in the Summer of 2013.

Brianna states in her Spring 2015 scholarship application;

“This scholarship means so much to me! I'm in my senior year and I wouldn't be here if it weren't for this scholarship. Childcare costs for two children are so restrictive and this is one of the only programs I have found that is really trying to help single mothers get off of the system and be able to pursue their dreams, and support their own families. In addition to the financial assistance for childcare, I got my internship through a connection made at the WomenGive luncheon last year. That led to an amazing experience as a structural engineer this last summer at an engineering firm in Denver. Because of this experience, I now have a job waiting for me when I graduate! And not just any job…I'll be able to pursue my dream as a structural engineer while supporting my own family! In addition, I hoped to be able to get my Masters Degree, and the company I am working for will pay for it while I am working for them. So, WomenGive has not only allowed me to pursue my degree without worry of where my kids receive care during the day, but it also led me to my first job where I am able to support my family all on my own!”

Brianna's words speak to the far reaching impact of WomenGive. We are so proud of Brianna, and the other 7 amazing WomenGive recipients that will be graduating this May, 4 with Bachelor's degrees, and 4 with Associate's degrees. We are so proud of the accomplishments of these women, and thankful for the generous members who support them in reaching their goals.

“Thank you so much WomenGive and all of the amazing women who make up the program!”

Click here to see Brianna featured in the 2014 WomenGive luncheon video and learn more about her journey!